
The 15th edition of the World Pro witnessed an electrifying display of skills from amateur Jiu-Jitsu athletes during its fifth day. Commando Group proved to be a dominant force in the division. Close behind, A.F.N.T. took second place and Sharjah Self Defense Sports Club secured a commendable third.
Sunday’s fights featured intense competition in the World Pro. The bouts included white and blue belts representing academies from all over the world. Competitors showed their best Jiu-Jitsu during the World Pro, as they impressed the awestruck audience with talent and determination.
World Pro and Jiu-Jitsu unite nations
H.E. Mohammed Salem Al Dhaheri, Vice President of the UAE Jiu-Jitsu Federation and Chairman of the Championship Organizing Committee, said: “Dedicating an entire day to amateur competitions strengthens the tournament’s position as an ideal global Jiu-Jitsu platform. Although amateurs have participated in the championship before, we have allocated a full day to them in response to growing demand. This change highlights the growing interest in Jiu-Jitsu and the ADWPJJC. It also promotes inclusion and provides opportunities for amateurs to showcase their talents and skills on the global stage. In short, it paves the way for aspiring amateurs to advance their Jiu-Jitsu careers.”
“The championship brings together people from various cultures and backgrounds and facilitates meaningful interactions between them. So this reflects the UAEJJF’s commitment to promoting positive communication through sport,” added Al Dhaheri.
Fierce competition at the World Pro
Sagiyev Kuat, president of the Kazakhstan Jiu-Jitsu Association, expressed his satisfaction with the success of the country’s athletes. In addition, he was thrilled with the growing international participation in the championship. He said: “I am very excited by the outstanding performance of Kazakhstan’s athletes.”
“Some nations used to dominate Jiu-Jitsu, but that no longer seems to be the case. More nations, international clubs and young athletes are getting involved in the sport. Abu Dhabi’s efforts to promote the sport globally are truly commendable. Whether it’s through organizing major international events or uniting the international Jiu-Jitsu community under one umbrella,” added Kuat.
Russia’s Maria Odintsova, who won gold representing Kyrgyzstan Top Team in the Women’s Gi / Blue / Amateur / 49kg division, said: “I’ve taken part in several international tournaments, but the World Pro is unlike any other. It’s the best in terms of professional organization and international participation. What’s more, the crowd is incredible.”
Athletes celebrate titles
Stefan Lazarevic, from Serbia, won gold for A.F.N.T. in the men’s kimono / blue / amateur / 120 kg category. He said: “It’s phenomenal to win in Abu Dhabi. The World Pro is the gateway to a glorious career in Jiu-Jitsu. The United Arab Emirates and Abu Dhabi have set exceptional standards in organizing and holding major Jiu-Jitsu tournaments.”
Elsewhere, Brazilian Gabriel Do Santos Nagera won gold for Alliance International in the men’s / blue / amateur / 62 kg kimono. He said: “I’m proud of this great achievement because winning the gold medal in the 62 kg category is a significant milestone in my life. Now that I’m a professional world champion, I’m very optimistic about future competitions.”
The championship continues this Monday, with competitions in the Master category (over 30 years old) for blue, purple, brown and black belts, and runs until Tuesday, November 7.